In Moscow's Shadows In Moscow's Shadows 232: the Black Priest vs the Death Cult
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Jan 18, 2026 A tabloid's bizarre claim paints Zelensky's Christmas message as a 'black mass' aimed at Putin. This sparks a discussion on why occult narratives are infiltrating Russian media. Mark explores how perceptions of Russia as a 'nihilistic death cult' distort Western thinking. The podcast delves into the dangers of framing, revealing how such beliefs can hinder meaningful dialogue and engagement. Plus, it highlights the human experiences in Russia, urging a connection with ordinary citizens to reshape future relations.
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Tabloid's 'Black Mass' Take On Zelensky
- Mark Galeotti reads and dissects a Moskovsky Komsomolets article branding Zelensky's Christmas address as a 'black mass'.
- He details the article's claims about costume, trance, hidden codes, and a death curse aimed at Putin.
Pseudo-Expertise Fuels Familiar Smears
- The article mixes pseudo-expertise, physiognomy, and conspiracy to portray Zelensky as a pharmacologically stimulated 'black priest'.
- Galeotti shows how such tropes recycle older smear narratives like drug-use accusations from 2019.
Hidden Codes And The 'Neurosphere' Claim
- The tabloid claims Zelensky attempted to 'hack the Neurosphere' and planted three hidden codes in his address to synchronise a national death impulse.
- Galeotti lists the alleged 'Abraham Code', 'occult blackmail of the West', and a 'psychotropic' hypnotic element.